Periodic testing of sprinkler systems brings fresh oxygenated water into the system. Steel piping in contact with oxygenated water leads to corrosion. The problem can be quite severe in case MIC (microbiologically influenced corrosion) takes part in the corrosion process. The use of higher alloyed materials does in that case not guarantee long service life anymore.
By a combination of different knowledge domains, METALogic has the ideal expertise to map the problem, find the root causes and suggest remediation actions.
Failure analysis
By means of a failure analysis, the exact root cause of the degradation is determined. A representative section of the sprinkler piping is removed for destructive analysis in the laboratory. A failure analysis typically includes following investigations: visual examination of the internal and external surface, light microscopic and/or scanning electron microscopic study on cross-sections through the pipe and analysis of the deposits/corrosion products.
Analysis of the sprinkler water
To determine the corrosion risk associated with a certain water quality a water analysis is typically performed. Samples of the water are taken at different locations in the system (reservoir, at the start and at the end of the system, dead ends). Based on the results of the water analysis a general estimation of the corrosion risk towards e.g. carbon steel is made.
A typical analysis includes:
- determination of chemical parameters relevant to corrosion (pH, ionic composition, …).
- determination of the corrosivity of the water based on an electrochemical corrosion test, estimation of the risk for uniform or localized corrosion.
- determination of the risk for microbiologically influenced corrosion by semi-quantitative determination of different groups of bacteria
Endoscopy and thickness measurements on the pipes
By means of a video camera with light source the internal surface of the pipes can be examined. The possible presence of a biofilm can be evaluated.
